Myth Busting – Grabbing Chocolate, Cake, or Crisps is the Best Way to Boost Energy Levels

We've all been there, grabbing sugary treats to get us through the 3 pm slump, but it may not be the best thing to keep you going in the long term.

We’ve all been there: the clock strikes 3pm, and suddenly, the day feels twice as long. Your energy plummets, and instinctively, you reach for a quick fix, maybe some chocolate, a slice of cake, or a bag of crisps, to power through the rest of your workday. After all, isn’t a sugar or carb-loaded snack the best way to recharge and beat the afternoon slump?

Well, not exactly. While these treats might give you a fleeting burst of energy, they come with some major downsides. Let’s debunk this common myth and explore what really happens to your body when you rely on sugary or processed snacks to boost your energy.

The Short-Lived Boost and Rapid Crash

When you eat something sugary like chocolate or a piece of cake, it causes a quick spike in your blood sugar. This rush of glucose into your bloodstream gives you a temporary burst of energy, which can feel like exactly what you need during that mid-afternoon slump. But here’s the catch: that burst is short-lived.

Your body releases insulin in response to the surge of sugar, working hard to bring your blood sugar levels back down. This process happens quickly, and as your blood sugar levels plummet, you experience a crash. The result? You feel more tired and sluggish than before, craving even more sugar or another snack to boost your energy once again.

This cycle of peaks and crashes leaves you stuck on a rollercoaster of energy highs and lows, which isn’t sustainable for getting through the rest of your day.

Why Processed Snacks Like Crisps Aren’t the Answer

You might think that crisps or other salty, carb-heavy snacks are a better option, but the truth is that they come with their own set of problems. Crisps are often made from refined carbohydrates, which your body processes quickly, much like sugar. The rapid digestion of these refined carbs leads to another insulin spike and just like with sugary snacks a quick crash that follows.

Additionally, crisps and other highly processed snacks are typically low in nutritional value. They may satisfy your hunger momentarily, but they lack the fibre, protein, and healthy fats that keep you feeling full and energised for longer periods of time.

The Hidden Impact on Your Mitochondria

Beyond the immediate energy crash, consistently relying on sugary or processed foods can harm your body’s ability to produce energy in the long run. These snacks don’t just affect your blood sugar they also impact your cells, specifically the mitochondria. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of your cells, responsible for producing energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Excessive sugar intake leads to the production of free radicals, which cause oxidative stress and damage to your mitochondria. When your mitochondria aren’t functioning properly, your body struggles to produce energy efficiently, leaving you feeling more fatigued over time. So, while that chocolate bar or bag of crisps might give you a quick jolt, it’s damaging your cells’ ability to generate lasting energy in the long run.

A Better Way to Beat the 3pm Slump

So, what should you reach for during that 3pm energy dip? The key is to fuel your body with foods that provide sustained energy without the crash. Here are some tips:

Opt for Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables break down more slowly in the body, providing a steady release of energy over time. They help prevent the rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar that leave you feeling sluggish.
Pair Carbs with Protein and Healthy Fats: Combining complex carbohydrates with protein and healthy fats will keep you fuller for longer and provide a slow, sustained energy boost. Think apple slices with peanut butter or whole-grain toast with avocado and an egg.
Stay Hydrated: Sometimes, that afternoon slump is simply due to dehydration. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain energy levels and focus.
Snack Smart: Choose snacks like mixed nuts, Greek yoghurt with berries, or hummus with veggie sticks. These options provide a mix of nutrients that support steady energy release and help keep your mitochondria functioning optimally.
Move Around: A quick walk or stretch can help re-energise your body and clear your mind, making it easier to power through the rest of the day.

Grabbing chocolate, cake, or crisps might seem like a quick solution to that dreaded afternoon slump, but the energy spike you get will be short-lived, followed by a sharp crash. Not only do these foods disrupt your blood sugar levels, but over time, they can also harm your cells’ ability to produce energy efficiently, leaving you more fatigued in the long run.

Instead of relying on sugary or processed snacks, opt for nutrient-rich foods like complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats that provide sustained energy without the crash. By making smarter snack choices, you’ll keep your energy steady, avoid the afternoon fog, and protect your body’s ability to produce lasting energy!

If you need support in managing your energy levels and finding the right nutrition strategies, feel free to book a free 30 minute health and energy review here.

Categories: : energy, health and wellbeing, sugary treats